Insects Affecting Man

Insects have attacked man for centuries. Mosquitoes, house flies, and body lice have undermined his health; tomato horn worms, pea weevils, and cabbage loopers have destroyed his food; cloths moths, carpet beetles, and termites have damaged his home and possessions. Mosquitoes have always been irritating; some carry disease. In 1917, this netting was used to protect against mosquito attacks.

Entomologists have recommended many measures to combat mosquitoes in their breeding places. This man, using a method recommended 30 years ago, is applying oil to puddles around his home. Mosquitoes breed only in still water but not all types of water produce mosquitoes.

Entomologists have studied ticks and how to control them. They have found several repellents effective against the American dog, or wood tick--carrier of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Wearing one sock treated with a repellent and another untreated sock, entomologists at the Savannah, Georgia laboratory stand in a tick enclosure to study the effectiveness of repellents. Note the number of ticks that have crawled up the two pairs of socks.

Methods for controlling insects have advanced remarkably since the days when entomologists could only suggest sanitation, nets, screens, and fly swatters. Insecticides are man's chief weapon against insects. Applicators for applying them are available to fit most any control situation. Here an airplane equipped with spray equipment is being used for mosquito control.

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